If you are looking for something different than the traditional big cruise lines, Virgin Voyages might be for you. Whether you have tried to the big lines or just don’t feel like that fits your vibe, Virgin feels different. Virgin is an adults-only cruise line that offers a smaller ship feel without losing any of the amenities you might expect from a larger ship. Their attention to detail, healthy and indulgent options, and unique entertainment set this cruise apart.
Adults Only
All sailings on Virgin Voyages are 18+ so there are no children on board. The vibe of the ship reflects this. There are two event venues, The Red Room and The Manor, with a variety of shows with adult jokes, 90s music, and references that go over little heads. Every ship also has its own drag queen who appears in shows and around the ship. Are the event venues full? No worries! Music, trivia, karaoke, and more can be found in bars and public spaces across the ship. Come and go as you please!
Health Focused – If You Want
While Virgin can feel like the focus is on the lively entertainment, multiple swanky bars, and adults only vibes, it also leans into wellness in a way that feels intentional. Bars and restaurants offer a variety of creative cocktails with low or no alcohol without losing the whimsy. There are also many vegetarian and vegan options with high attention to allergies. The gym isn’t hidden away and you can join fun cardio classes that feel like a party. I personally loved the red running track which is a great way to get steps in. You don’t have to run or be fast either – just let people pass you!
No Buffets
No buffets is another thing that isn’t just marketing talk. Even in The Gallery, the quick service area with multiple food stands, has servers who build your plate for you. No shared tongs, no food sitting out for long, and hot food made to order. They even stress the importance for getting new plates and glasses every time you get up for seconds or another coffee. This not only feels more upscale but it also cuts down on how many germs are passed in food areas.
While glasses are out for quick water refills, there are water stations around ship specifically for water bottle refills. Or refill your bottle before a day out with the jugs left in the rooms. Housekeeping can you hook sailors up with still and sparkling water.
The Hammocks and Other Little Details
Every balcony cabin features Virgin Voyage’s signature red hammock. So what? You might say. But I think the red hammock is the best example of Virgin’s attention to the little details. This hammock brough so much joy and peace as I sat it in many times on our voyage taking in the sea breeze. But it’s more than that – it’s the water in the rooms, the friendly wait staff, the seating areas and bars designed with intention. While Virgin ships are still fairly large, the details add a level of intimacy that elevates the whole experience.
Scarlet Night
Scarlet Night is a celebration of the moon and the myth of octopus goddess that takes place one night on every cruise. Sailors get creative with their red outfits – think fun dresses, jumpsuit, red pants, and sparkles. There’s pop-up entertainment around the ship, special shows, and late-night dance party to celebrate. This unique party sets Virgin apart and something to look forward to on every sailing. Most Scarlet Nights feature a big late-night dance party on the pool deck that can’t be missed. However, it was raining on my voyage so the party was moved The Red Room with a fabulous club atmosphere. So don’t worry crappy weather or cold destination – Virgin has an equally fun back up plan!
Bar Spaces
One things that I didn’t truly appreciate until I got on board was the different bar spaces. Even when you aren’t drinking, these public spaces were such fun places to sit and enjoy the atmosphere. Each space was different but somehow effortlessly flowed to the next space and felt cohesive to the overall design of the ship. Sailors will find a casual beer bar near carnival style snacks (Draught Haus), a cozy and dark cocktail bar with speakeasy vibes (On the Rocks), a beachy indoor/outdoor bar with light snacks and creative cocktails (The Dock House), and a swanky champagne lounge (Sip).
A Low Stress Drink Package
Some cruise lines offer what feels like an all or nothing drink package. Get the drink package and you need to drink a huge number of drinks for it to feel “worth it.” Or don’t purchase one at all. With Virgin, you can purchase a Bar Tab in increments from $200 to $1000 to purchase drinks and packages can be shared. Plus, purchase in advance to get a little extra bar money from the ship. Don’t drink? You still may want a smaller Bar Tab to cover specialty coffees (like lattes), low or no alcoholic mocktails, juice, and smoothies. Soda, water, tea bags, and drip coffee are included in your base fare. Read more about the Virgin Voyage drink package options here.
